Jsarno, I think you are reading a little too much into the article.
He was convicted on Methamphetamine charges. I don't know if he sold or used but I wouldn't categorize a Meth charge as a HORRIBLE act.
Also, I never read in the article where he blamed anyone other than himself.
Major players don't get 5 years. I have an uncle that was a player down in Jsarnos area and he is serving 25 to life.
With that said, This guy has completed over 90% of his sentence in a minimum security prison. He is going to be released in August to a halfway house. They are not asking to give the father a break, They are simply asking for compassion for a dying little girl.
My personal opinion is that he should not get released for an extended period of time but a few days, Maybe a weekend while staying at a halfway house.
If his last name was Hilton, He would've been out 2.5 years ago.
They let inmates out for funerals, I think saying goodbye to the child while she is living is more important than going to her funeral which he would be released for.
Another Article with a little more information